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On Saturday, he worked a full shift as a lifeguard and helped treat a 5-year-old who had been stung by a bluebottle jellyfish.

A friend of Hamish's, who did not want to be named, said he also helped a friend out of the water on Saturday after suffering a dislocated shoulder.

"Things haven't sunken in yet. It's unreal."

The pair had been in the same water polo team since Year 7, but he said Hamish just loved keeping fit.

"He was a bit of a fitness freak, really. For the past two years he's been on this massive buzz and running and stuff like that.

"As a senior he just volunteered at every event which I think is pretty massive.

"That's something that we'll always remember Hamish for is that he was the biggest volunteer."

Good friend Jonah Dobson described Hamish as "one of my closest, most trusted friends" who loved the beach.

"He's a universally liked guy and there was never a dull moment with him around," he told the Herald.

The Mt Manganui Lifeguard Service paid tribute to Hamish writing "it's with aching, weeping hearts we farewell one of our members".

"Our beautiful ocean can be a cruel mistress but at least she gave Hamish back to us today. To the Rieger clan, who have contributed so much to our club and our movement over the years, we offer our total, unconditional love and support."

Surf Life Saving New Zealand lifesaving manager Allan Mundy said the surf club was "completely gutted" by the loss of Hamish. He warned large swells would continue at the Mount for up to 10 days, peaking on Wednesday with a 3m swell.